History Talk: Melvin Hazen - Rock Creek, Race, & History

Description

Rock Creek Conservancy and the National Park Service host a virtual discussion of race and history in Washington, DC. Join local experts to explore the history of Melvin C. Hazen as a window into the complex legacy of past leaders and an opportunity to learn about lesser-known figures in these histories.

Melvin C. Hazen was a District leader in the early 20th century with responsibility for city planning. He preserved significant tracts of parkland, including many parts of Rock Creek Park, while also promoting exclusionary policies like the Alley Dwelling Authority. Hazen's role as an architect for the razing of Reno located in present-day Fort Reno Park—and the voices of dissent in that story—will be highlighted.

This conversation will feature a conversation with local historian and architect Neil Flanagan and NPS Regional Cultural Anthropologist Noel López, moderated by NPS Civil War Defenses of Washington Program Manager Kym Elder.

A zoom link to the virtual meeting space will be sent to all registered participants before the event.